Machete is an action exploitation film franchise that began with a 2010 feature film directed by Robert Rodriguez and starring Danny Trejo as a former Mexican federal agent turned vigilante. The property originated as a fake trailer in the 2007 film Grindhouse before being expanded into a full feature and its 2013 sequel Machete Kills. The franchise holds cultural significance as a deliberately over-the-top homage to 1970s exploitation cinema, featuring graphic violence, political themes around immigration and border politics, and a diverse ensemble cast. Its aesthetic embraces grindhouse filmmaking traditions with intentionally rough visual styles, practical effects, and darkly humorous tone. The character of Machete himself, portrayed by cult favorite Danny Trejo, has become an iconic figure representing working-class Mexican heroism and anti-establishment action.
Pinball enthusiasts have discussed Machete as a potential machine theme in online forums, with approximately 25 community mentions tracked across pinball discussion boards. Fans have noted that the franchise offers substantial content for adaptation, particularly given the existence of multiple films and the anticipated third installment Machete Kills Again in Space. Community members have suggested the property could work well as a pinball theme despite being considered niche, with one poster describing it as having more content potential than other fake-trailer-turned-film properties. Discussion has centered on the timing opportunity if a machine were released alongside future franchise installments.
The Machete franchise offers several elements that could translate effectively to pinball machine design. Visually, the films' vibrant color palette, grindhouse aesthetic, and memorable imagery including the signature machete weapon itself would provide strong thematic material for playfield and cabinet artwork. Gameplay possibilities could incorporate the franchise's action sequences, including motorcycle chases, gunfights, and blade combat, which could translate into varied shot combinations and mission-based objectives. The diverse cast of characters across both films would allow for multiple modes and character-specific features. Sound design opportunities include the distinctive musical scores that blend Mexican musical traditions with exploitation film soundtracks, plus the extensive dialogue and one-liners from Danny Trejo and other cast members that could enhance callouts and attract sequences. The escalating scope from the first film to the space-themed sequel concept provides natural progression for multiball and wizard mode scenarios.
